There’s a Grecian gem just right for you. With ancient ruins, stunning beaches, traditional tavernas and vibrant resorts, you can be sure that there’s an island with a character and atmosphere that’s just right for you – and of course, a welcome that’s as warm as the climate. After all, Greece’s island (and islet) grand total exceeds 6,000.

Crete, found right at the southern tip, is home to some of Greece’s most impressive archaeological sites and most exotic-looking beaches. Forest-veiled Kefalonia, the largest out of the Ionian Islands, is a perfect base for hopping over to the rest of its sister islands; nearby Zante is another post-exam clubbing paradise as well as a classic family-favourite. Colourful Corfu will enchant couples and families with its pastel-coloured architecture while party-people won’t want to leave the nightlife in Kavos. For a change in scenery, check out the South Aegean islands: Lovely Rhodes is bound to win you over with its medieval charm and countless Blue Flag beaches.

Rhodes, one of the most popular of the islands in the South Aegean, guarantee the perfect party setting for clubbers as well as plenty of family holiday activities. Its medieval architecture, whitewashed hotels and intricate street mosaics are bound to enchant you.

Greece has some of the best-preserved ancient sites in the world and a holiday in Crete or Rhodes will give you endless places to visit. Traditional, authentic villages on the islands of Santorini, Lefkas, and Corfu will give you a feeling of time gone by, with cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings. If by day you want to relax on a sandy beach and then be entertained from dusk till dawn at night, one of Greece’s purpose-built resorts could be right for you.

Laden with thousands of ancient caves, Greece is a perfect spot for going caving with the kids. Experience the otherworldly atmosphere in Kefalonia’s million-year-old Drogarati Cave or the colour-changing waters found inside Zante’s Blue Caves. Discover Greece’s wildlife with sea-turtle-spotting in Zante or butterfly-spying in Rhodes. Go on a journey back to Greece’s history at Rhodes’ medieval castle or Crete’s ancient palaces. A classic family favourite attraction in Greece is the many lavish waterparks found on its islands. If you find yourselves in Corfu, don’t miss a visit to Aqualand, one of Europe’s largest and most impressive waterparks.

Greek island partying has it all: fun-loving club reps, classic tunes and legendary boat parties. Spend your day bronzing on the beach or get active with watersports and hula-hooping on a beach party. Foam parties, boat cruises and pub crawls starting at midday are also classic daytime attractions in Greece’s party resorts. You’ll find one of Europe’s largest pub crawls in Corfu, while you’re always likely to end up in a Rave Cave on of one its boat parties. Malia, Greece’s most famous clubbing resort, attracts some of the biggest music names around, which you can enjoy without having to break the bank!.

Islands are the best places in Greece for enjoying the country’s cuisine at its finest. Indulge in Greece’s national dishes made from fresh, island produce. Fresh vine-leave parcels filled with crunchy pine nuts and rice (ntolmades)are a classic Greek favourite. Gemista (rice and minced meat stuffed tomatoes) are best combined with some crumbly, tangy feta cheese smeared on top. Nearly every island will have its own take on the classic Greek salad too. Cretan Ntakos is one of the most famous of the island bunch: sweet vine tomatoes, creamy Myzithra cheese, wild capers and dark-rusks soaked in pure Cretan olive oil are the perfect midday holiday snack.

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GREECE IS BEST FOR...

History lovers: Discover Greece’s ancient world and mythology in its abundance of archaeological sites.

Sun-seekers: With one of the Mediterranean’s hottest and driest summers, you’re guaranteed to go home with a tan to make everyone jealous.

WEATHER AND CLIMATE

Temperature: Up to the mid-30s (˚C)

Best time to visit Greece: April to October

Complemented by a typically Mediterranean climate, the weather in Greece and its islands is best enjoyed from April to October. Starting in the low-20s (˚C), island temperatures typically blaze up to the mid-30s in the country’s hottest months (July and August). Due to their geographical position, some islands enjoy slightly cooler temperatures, such as Corfu, whose temperature will only heat up to the mid-high 20s. Crete, on the other hand, can climb up to the low 40s in its southern parts.

GETTING AROUND

By hire car: The best way to discover Greece’s splendour is by hire car.

By scooter: A sun-soaked alternative for the more adventurous offered by the majority of the islands is scooter or even buggy-rentals.

By boat: Don’t miss out on a daytrip around your summer island on board of one of the boat tours. Most of these offer half-price discounts for kids while infants can travel for free.

EVENTS

Traditional celebration: The 15th of August is Greece’s biggest religious holiday. Locals in every corner of Greece celebrate with a day (or even more) of drinking and eating.

Saint’s day: Each Greek island also has its own religious celebration made in honour of the island’s patron saint: folklore dancing and more drinking and eating are guaranteed!

Why choose Thomas Cook

With hotels available to suit every person and every budget look no further than Thomas Cook for your getaway this year!

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